Langwathby United v Ambleside United

It was always likely to be a tough task for Langwathby to pull off a county cup shock against Ambleside, who play two divisions higher in the Westmorland League, and despite a spirited effort they were well beaten.

Sadly the lure of a senior cup tie didn't tempt any locals to watch. At kick off I was the sole spectator, and even though someone connected with Ambleside soon arrived to double the attendance I can't recall ever been being part of such a small 'crowd' for a Saturday afternoon game.

In fact Langwathby United, struggling in Westmorland League Division Three, could only muster 11 players, no substitutes and no one to run the line. Ambleside at least had a coach and a sub, which was handy as they lost a player to an early injury.

The visitors were 4-0 ahead by half time, and should have scored more than the three they got after the break. Despite netting twice in the second half Langwathby never threatened any sort of comeback.

I've driven past Langwathby's ground a few times so it was good to finally visit to see a game. It's just outside the village, on the main road from Penrith. There's a modern pavilion, beyond which is a sports field, with the senior football pitch on the far side of a cricket square.

No facilities for spectators, not that you'd expect any at this level of course, and based on this experience Langwathby United aren't exactly drawing in the crowds. It's a shame because it's a nice place to watch a match, and local grassroots football needs all the support it can get.

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About Me

When I’m not working, or doing other things, I’m a groundhopper. This blog will record every new ground I visit for football, with a brief match report, ground description and a few photos.
Any spelling mistakes or typos are likely to be the result of blogging after a glass or two of wine, and attendance figures are my headcounts or estimates (official figures used if available).